Tucson Braces for 60 MPH Winds and Hail

On Friday, July 17, the National Weather Service in Tucson issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Pima County, Arizona. This alert highlighted the imminent threat of damaging winds reaching up to 60 mph and hail measuring as large as one inch in diameter.

Officials strongly advised residents to seek immediate shelter inside sturdy structures, staying away from windows. The storm posed risks of significant damage to roofs, siding, and trees. Additionally, torrential rainfall raised concerns about potential flash flooding, with warnings against driving through flooded roadways.

The warning specifically impacted eastern Pima County until 3:45 p.m. MST. Areas alerted included Tucson, Drexel Heights, South Tucson, San Xavier Community, Tucson International Airport, and San Xavier Mission. Key highway sections, including Interstate 19, Route 86, and Interstate 10, were also affected.

Arizona's monsoon season, from June 15 to September 30, typically brings intense heat, moisture, and instability conducive to storms. However, severe thunderstorms with winds exceeding 58 mph or large hail can occur year-round.